Top 5 UK City Breaks

If you’re thinking about taking a city break in the UK this year, consider these five awesome destinations.

London

It would be folly to write about the best city breaks in the UK without mentioning London. The capital city is home to many iconic sights, from the Yeomen of the Guard outside Buckingham Palace and Beefeaters of the Tower of London to the red telephone boxes which are dotted around the streets. Whether you’re into good food, shopping or history, there’s always something interesting to do in London. Visit the quirky markets in Camden, hang out like a hipster in Shoreditch, or eat strawberries and cream with the hoi polloi in Kensington Gardens. London has a reputation for being expensive, but it is actually a great place to visit even on a budget. There is so much to do for free here, from world class museums to special events.

Liverpool

Forget your preconceptions - this industrial city has undergone a massive makeover since being named a European Capital of Culture in 2008. The regenerated Albert Dock is full of classy cocktail bars and fancy restaurants, while the dynamic new Liverpool One shopping area has changed the face of the town centre. Liverpool is very proud of its musical exports, and there are plenty of museums and tours focussing on the legacy of The Beatles.  Why not snap a pic beside the statue of John Lennon before jumping on the Yellow Duckmarine tour bus: once it’s shown you the sights of the city, it plunges into the Mersey.

Glasgow

While the population of Edinburgh doubles in the summer due to tourism, it’s easy to overlook Scotland’s rougher, tougher, second city. Don’t. The vibrant nightlife, huge arts scene, and laid back attitude make Glasgow a great place to visit. Enjoy the local banter at the famous Barras Market, or relax in one of the classy wine and tapas bars of the Merchant City. There are lots of hotels in Glasgow near the SECC, airport, and Hampden Park, so if you’re staying in Glasgow you can find the perfect place.

Brighton & Hove

Bohemian Brighton and Hove combines the best of the British seaside with everything you could want from a city break. Stay in Hove, where many of the beautiful Regency townhouses have been turned into short term accommodation. Hove has its own selection of posh bars and restaurants, but you’ll find more things going on in Brighton.  Spend a cheesy afternoon enjoying an ice cream and the rides on the pier before browsing the quirky shops in The Lanes. If you fancy a break from the hustle and bustle there is always the beach to sit on and relax.

Belfast

Just a short skip over the Irish Sea, this underdog city has plenty to offer city breakers. Belfast is  putting its troubled past behind it, and lots of money has already been poured into the waterfront regeneration project in the Titanic Quarter. Enjoy high tea at the Merchant Hotel, learn about the city’s history on a walking tour, and head up to the Dome at Victoria Square for the best views in town. 

Leo Spirati is an Italian born Briton with a passion for travel.